Thread: So, for the next two weeks we're adding a little Halloween flavour to our #SpotLeukaemia graphics (don't worry @MyelomaUK - the black and orange is temporary)

Spotting the signs and symptoms of leukaemia is vital - no matter the time of year.

Early diagnosis saves lives

So, first up is our new fatigue graphic. Fatigue is a tiredness that doesn't get better with rest. It makes everyday tasks really hard work.

We have a webinar on managing fatigue on the 28th. Free to attend and co-hosted by @LymphomaAction - register here https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_i-bFmt6AQBKlvbWHzs6DKQ

Next, joint or bone pain. This is particularly common as a symptom in childhood leukaemia and might be misdiagnosed as growing pains. For info on childhood leukaemia, see our friends at @cclg_uk

We also apologise for the terrible marrow pun. However, your marrow could make you a lifesaver. See @anthonynolan or @dkms_uk about joining the register

Drenching night sweats are not something to be ignored. Don't blame it on the central heating or the winter duvet.

Before a leukaemia diagnosis, you might have excessive bleeding. For example you may have sore bleeding gums or experiencing heavy periods. Don't ignore it.

Blood cancer patients need lots of support with blood products during active treatment.

If you can, become a blood donor - see @GiveBloodNHS for more info

On the subject of blood - did you know that many classic vampire tales were probably about acute leukaemia patients?

Great study here https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31713762/ 

Similarly, bruising easily is a recognised symptom of leukaemia. Loads of people have worries about bruising with over 555,000 people reading our article on it this year https://www.leukaemiacare.org.uk/support-and-information/latest-from-leukaemia-care/blog/spotting-the-difference-bruising-in-leukaemia-vs-ordinary-bruising/

Worryingly, in a survey commissioned for World Leukemia Day, it was revealed that just 43% would contact a GP about feeling breathless

It's stats like these that really take our breath away and show why we need to keep working to raise awareness

If you or somebody you love is worrying that they have one or more of these symptoms, 1. Contact your GP and request a blood test 2. Speak to one of our helpline nurses on 08088010444

Prefer putting it in writing? Email [email protected]

Would you like to use the graphics to raise awareness? We've made them available to download on our website. We think they're spooktacular

https://media.leukaemiacare.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/Halloween-Symptoms-Graphics.zip